Exploration and Expression: Chandra Brown's Business Story

Exploration and Expression: Chandra Brown's Business Story

In the heart of Montana’s wilderness, Chandra Brown has built a business that bridges education, adventure, and creativity. As the founder of Freeflow Institute, she has crafted a unique model of university-accredited outdoor learning experiences, bringing together writers, educators, and professionals for immersive trips through rivers and backcountry landscapes. Since launching in 2018 in Missoula, Freeflow Institute has grown into a thriving community of thinkers and storytellers, redefining what it means to learn in the wild.

A Business Born from Passion 

Chandra’s journey to entrepreneurship was anything but conventional. With a background as a river guide, teacher, and freelance writer, she found herself drawn to the intersection of education, creative arts, and the natural world. Freeflow Institute became the embodiment of these passions—a place where learning doesn’t happen in a classroom but on the banks of a river or under an open sky. 

At the core of Freeflow’s offerings is a graduate-level creative writing workshop integrated into a multi-day river trip. Participants spend their mornings rafting and hiking, their evenings engaging in workshops, discussions, and thought exercises. This combination of physical movement, deep reflection, and communal learning creates a transformative experience, one that fosters both creativity and connection. 

A Business Born from Passion 

Chandra’s journey to entrepreneurship was anything but conventional. With a background as a river guide, teacher, and freelance writer, she found herself drawn to the intersection of education, creative arts, and the natural world. Freeflow Institute became the embodiment of these passions—a place where learning doesn’t happen in a classroom but on the banks of a river or under an open sky. 

At the core of Freeflow’s offerings is a graduate-level creative writing workshop integrated into a multi-day river trip. Participants spend their mornings rafting and hiking, their evenings engaging in workshops, discussions, and thought exercises. This combination of physical movement, deep reflection, and communal learning creates a transformative experience, one that fosters both creativity and connection. 

Lessons in Entrepreneurship 

Like many entrepreneurs, Chandra’s path has been filled with trial and error. “There’s not always a template or framework,” she reflects. “A lot of it is just seeing what sticks.” Despite the uncertainty, she remained steadfast in her belief in Freeflow’s mission. 

One of the biggest lessons she has learned is the importance of confidence—both in her work and in its value to the world. “The more confident I am, the more confidence our community and clients have in what we do,” she explains. Communication has also been key. Learning how to effectively articulate Freeflow’s mission and vision has helped Chandra gain support and build lasting relationships. 

The Power of Community 

From the very beginning, Chandra knew she couldn’t build Freeflow alone. She sought guidance from mentors, colleagues, and friends—people she admired in the fields of education, the outdoors, and the creative arts. “I’ve always relied on the ideas and encouragement of others,” she says. Over time, this network of support evolved into the vibrant community that now surrounds Freeflow. 

The Rocky Mountain Women’s Business Center (RMWBC) has played a role in that support system. Before connecting with the WBC, Chandra worked with Blackstone LaunchPad at the University of Montana, where she received invaluable mentorship. Later, through RMWBC, she attended webinars, worked with consultants, and found inspiration in newsletters that helped her feel less alone in the often-isolating world of entrepreneurship. 

Impact and Looking Forward 

Through Freeflow Institute, Chandra has witnessed the power of storytelling and outdoor education to transform lives. Her programs have brought together artists, educators, and leaders, helping them find their voices and share their stories. Seeing participants come together, form deep connections, and take their experiences back into the world has been the most rewarding part of her journey. 

Reflecting on her leap from the stability of a teaching career into entrepreneurship, Chandra acknowledges the fear and uncertainty she faced. But the risk has been worth it. “It has been one of the most energizing adventures of my life,” she says. “To build something from nothing and see it flourish—it’s been incredibly gratifying.”